Preview — American Ulysses
by Ronald C. White Jr.

American Ulysses: A Life of Ulysses S. Grant

From the author of the New York Times bestseller A. Lincoln, a major new biography of one of America’s greatest generals—and most misunderstood presidents

In his time, Ulysses S. Grant was routinely grouped with George Washington and Abraham Lincoln in the “Trinity of Great American Leaders.” But the battlefield commander-turned-commander-in-chief fell out of favor in the tFrom the author of the New York Times bestseller A. Lincoln, a major new biography of one of America’s greatest generals—and most misunderstood presidents

In his time, Ulysses S. Grant was routinely grouped with George Washington and Abraham Lincoln in the “Trinity of Great American Leaders.” But the battlefield commander-turned-commander-in-chief fell out of favor in the twentieth century. In American Ulysses, Ronald C. White argues that we need to once more revise our estimates of him in the twenty-first.

Based on seven years of research with primary documents—some of them never examined by previous Grant scholars—this is destined to become the Grant biography of our time. White, a biographer exceptionally skilled at writing momentous history from the inside out, shows Grant to be a generous, curious, introspective man and leader—a willing delegator with a natural gift for managing the rampaging egos of his fellow officers. His wife, Julia Dent Grant, long marginalized in the historic record, emerges in her own right as a spirited and influential partner.

Grant was not only a brilliant general but also a passionate defender of equal rights in post-Civil War America. After winning election to the White House in 1868, he used the power of the federal government to battle the Ku Klux Klan. He was the first president to state that the government’s policy toward American Indians was immoral, and the first ex-president to embark on a world tour, and he cemented his reputation for personal courage by racing against death to complete his Personal Memoirs. Published by Mark Twain, it is widely considered to be the greatest memoir by an American leader, but its place in Grant’s life story has never been fully explored—until now.

One of those rare books that successfully recast our impression of an iconic historical figure, American Ulysses gives us a finely honed, three-dimensional portrait of Grant the man—husband, father, writer, leader—that should set the standard by which all future biographies of him will be measured....more

Community Reviews

”Grant ‘moves with his shoulders thrown a little forward of the perpendicular, his left hand in the pocket of his pantaloons, an unlighted cigar in his mouth, his eyes thrown straight forward, which from the haze of abstraction that veils them, and a countenance drawn into furrows of thought, would seem to indicate that he is intensely preoccupied.’

‘The soldiers observe him coming, and rising to their feet, gather on each side of the way to see him pass--they do not salute him, they only watch h”Grant ‘moves with his shoulders thrown a little forward of the perpendicular, his left hand in the pocket of his pantaloons, an unlighted cigar in his mouth, his eyes thrown straight forward, which from the haze of abstraction that veils them, and a countenance drawn into furrows of thought, would seem to indicate that he is intensely preoccupied.’

‘The soldiers observe him coming, and rising to their feet, gather on each side of the way to see him pass--they do not salute him, they only watch him… with a certain sort of familiar reverence.’”

Often on the battlefield, Grant was indistinguishable from a private by the state of his clothing.

I still have that flutter of excitement whenever I go to my bookshelves to pick out a new book. Sometimes I know when I finish a book which one I will read next, but sometimes to add a bit more thrill to the process, I change my mind at the last minute. When I decide to read a biography like this one, I know that a couple of things will happen. One, if the writing is good, I will be completely transported to a different time and place. Second, I know I will have a revised opinion of the person I’m reading about by the time I finish the book.

I’ve always had a good impression of Grant, despite knowing about his alleged shortcomings: a failure before the war, a drunkard, a butcher on the battlefield, and later the President of a corrupt government. Ronald C. White is the first biographer who has had access to all 33 volumes of the collected papers of Ulysses S. Grant, so this is the most up-to-date, most informed biography ever written about Grant. White convinces me that those inadequacies, although based in some truth, are largely untrue. He was not a great success between the time he left the military and the time he joined back up for the national crisis, but nor was he a failure. He did drink, but rarely to excess. There were stories about his wife Julia having to visit him to straighten out his drinking problem; in reality, she was there to assuage his loneliness for her. There were many letters from him imploring her to write him more or to come see him. She suffered from strabismus, crossed eyes, which may have contributed to her reluctance to write.

Julia Dent Grant, please write Ulysses a letter!!

Or maybe she just wasn’t much of writer. As it turns out, her husband was an exceptional writer. His Memoirs, written while he was dying, are considered masterpieces. This gift for words surprised everyone, including his most fervent admirer Mark Twain. Even Gore Vidal, who is extremely difficult to impress, had high praise for the President’s writing. ”It is simply not possible to read Grant’s Memoirs without realizing that the author is a man of first-rate intelligence.”

The Federal troops took more casualties in almost every battle they fought in the Civil War, regardless of who was their commanding officer. The side that has to be offensive instead of defensive generally takes more casualties, and as Grant pushed the Confederates southward, he usually found his enemy entrenched. When Grant was given the command of the Army of the Potomac, he was the last in a long list of commanders who were fired for either bad results or a lack of results. One thing Abraham Lincoln knew was that he needed Grant, despite the thicket of criticisms that came fast and furious against him from those with thwarted ambition or green with jealousy.

”I need the man. He fights.”

Later, when Grant was President, his administration was rocked with scandal. Questions were even asked about HIS own honesty. The problem stemmed from the fact that Grant packed his appointments with close friends, people he trusted who also were far from the best qualified people for the job. Bribery, graft, and corruption charges at times made it difficult for him to administer his duties. He was a loyal person, constantly disappointed with the way the power of Washington tainted good men.

General, later President, Zachary Taylor. President Polk was uneasy about how popular Taylor was becoming with the American people due to his victories in Mexico.

Grant fought in two wars. The first one was the Mexican-American War. He served under the future President Zachary Taylor. He was assigned the job of Quartermaster, which had him wondering to himself what he had done wrong to be so punished. As it turns out, he was pretty damn good at the job. He arranged how the army would travel in Mexico. He found supplies when supply lines became stretched too thin. Next to the commander in charge, there is probably not a more important person in any army. His time as quartermaster served him well in the Civil War when he found himself in the role of commander. He not only designed the battles to be fought, but was able to make sure his men would be well fed and supplied in the process. A full belly should always be part of the tactics of any commander in any war. As the war progressed, the Confederates were fighting on empty bellies more than they were with a full ones, which not only weakened their fighting ability, but also affected their morale.

The other interesting thing about the Mexican-American War was the who’s who of Civil War generals who fought in that conflict as subordinate officers. Besides Grant, there was Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson, Jefferson Davis, George McClellan, James Longstreet, George Meade, Ambrose Burnside, William T. Sherman, and P.G.T. Beauregard, just to name a few. Now if we flash forward to the Civil War, these same men found themselves fighting against each other. In the 1860s, people identified more closely with their home state than they did with their country; most of the men went the way their state decided to go. James Longstreet was a groomsman at Ulysses S. Grant’s wedding. After Stonewall Jackson was killed, Longstreet became the number one man for Robert E. Lee on the Confederate side. This wasn’t an unusual story as too many families and friends found themselves split by their divided loyalties.

The officers on both sides all knew each other well. They went to West Point together. They fought together in Mexico. When an officer was killed, both sides mourned his passing.

There are a lot of things I like about Grant. One is his complete devotion to his wife, the respect he always showed her and also the respect he showed the wives, daughters, and mothers caught in the middle of war. I liked that he pursued the enemy relentlessly when others would have stopped to contemplate, hang up their garlands, or lick their wounds. He turned South when other Union generals, who had preceded him, had turned back North. The men from out West, Grant, Sherman, and Sheridan, proved to be the fighters for which Lincoln was looking. Grant was loyal to those men. He looked upon Sherman as a brother and Sheridan as a son.

When he finished his two terms in the White House, he took Julia on a two and half year trip around the world. He read voraciously the whole time, with favorites being his friend Mark Twain, his old favorite from West Point Walter Scott, and of course the Odyssey featuring his namesake. As they travelled, he and Julia often read out loud to one another. More relationships would benefit from sharing reading experiences together.

Grant reading just three days before he died.

Last but not least, when he discovered he was dying from throat cancer (he loved smoking cigars which certainly contributed to his demise), he decided that he needed to write his Memoirs to make sure that Julia and the kids had enough money. He’d lost a fortune over the years, trusting the wrong people. It was the Gilded Age and too many men found themselves broke from investing in blue sky with the hope of making a fortune. It sort of reminds me of the Tech Bubble when so many people felt stupid watching other people get filthy rich. Unfortunately just like in the Gilded Age many of the companies that looked like good investments in the 1990s were built on thin air and promises. Grant did not want to leave his family destitute. He wrote like a fiend every day, regardless of how well he felt. There were some who speculated that writing his Memoirs was the only thing keeping him alive. His battle tactics which he fortunately wrote about extensively (White supplies a flurry of great maps showing his key battles.) are still being studied for their ”speed, flexibility, surprise, concentration, and most importantly their audacity.” Grant is to say the least an unusual man.

Ronald C. White has done a wonderful job writing an engaging biography that brought Grant out from beneath the shadows of his slouch hat so we can see his twinkling blue eyes, shake his hand, and say, thank you, sir, for preserving our Union.

Another thought-provoking book during this forty days of biography reading takes me into the life and times of Ulysses S. Grant. Deemed one of the three greatest presidents at the turn of the 20th century, Ronald C. White takes the reader behind the scenes and offers a detailed account of the man and his journey through to the White House. Much might be known of his battles during the Civil War, though the reader is sure to find many other nuggets that help shape the man who defeated Robert E. LAnother thought-provoking book during this forty days of biography reading takes me into the life and times of Ulysses S. Grant. Deemed one of the three greatest presidents at the turn of the 20th century, Ronald C. White takes the reader behind the scenes and offers a detailed account of the man and his journey through to the White House. Much might be known of his battles during the Civil War, though the reader is sure to find many other nuggets that help shape the man who defeated Robert E. Lee or led the country through tumultuous times during Reconstruction. By no means brief, White makes detailed arguments and offers a strong narrative, both of which take time and scores of examples. The attention and patient reader will come away with a stronger understanding of this general-cum-politician, who might have paved the way for other greats like Eisenhower.

Born in rural Ohio, Ulysses S. Grant earned his name from a fateful coin toss, which left him yoked with a moniker that stood out amongst many. Of particular interest, his name at birth was Hiram Ulysses Grant, the 'S' an eventual creation without a full name to substantiate it. Grant's quiet nature and love of all things mathematical led him to excel academically and prove to be a sharp witted son of parents who despised the idea of slavery. While curious about teaching, Grant was encouraged to allow his name to stand for nomination to West Point, the military college that had shaped many men before him. Attending, Grant's passion remained with numbers and maps, though he did have an aptitude for some degree of the more aggressive aspects of the program. By the time he left, a soldier without a battle, Grant sought to explore his personal interests, one of which happened to be Julia Dent, daughter of a slaveholder and man who surely thought young Ulysses was not good enough to marry, let alone court, his daughter. With the outbreak of war with Mexico, Grant was promised a chance to marry the Dent girl upon his return. While away fighting, Grant fought alongside some of the great names of an upcoming military skirmish within the US borders. For now, the battle was to defend portions of the southern and western territories previously under the control of Mexico. As White explorers these battles, it becomes apparent that Grant pined daily for Julia and could not be bothered too much with the plight of his country. Grant fought hard and did all he could to defend America, eventually expanding it into what is now Texas and California, though the narrative is peppered with letters and commentary by the soldier home to his sweetheart. As promised, upon his return, Julia accepted his proposal and they were soon married, only to commence a series of military secondments. The Grants began their family, though Julia was left to tend to the children while Ulysses headed off, wishing he could take them along. These early struggles, which White argues might have torn some couples apart (and was the hope of Mr. Dent), only strengthened the resolve of Ulysses and Julia. Their connection foreshadowed future separations that caused heartache between them, though never brought them to the point of amorous deterioration. White exemplifies a strong-willed Ulysses, whose love for wife and family trumped all else. That Grant left the military in a cloud of scandal, his discharge an interesting tale all its own, makes the future military glory all the more sensational.

With the whispers of unrest within the United States, the election of Abraham Lincoln brought about much disquiet. White's past work on Lincoln helps pave the way with a strong narrative about the build-up of aggression within the South towards the sentiment of abolishing slavery. As mentioned before, Grant stood at a crossroads when it came to the issue, with parents strongly against the idea and in-laws who held slaves themselves. As the country was torn apart and war commenced, Grant remained a civilian, with no formal need to engage in war, at least at its beginning in 1861. As the battle-lines were drawn and the country turned to an 'us versus them' mentality, Grant held firm and watched as Lincoln led the North against Jefferson Davis and those secessionist states. White effectively narrates some of the major offensives of the early part of the Civil War, culminating in the Emancipation Proclamation, where Lincoln lays the groundwork for the entire rationale behind the North's fighting. After eventually rejoining the military hierarchy, Grant found himself befriending one William Tecumseh Sherman, a military man who would prove to be a life-long friend and shape much of the post-War military outlook. Grant eventually found himself summoned to the White House to meet with Lincoln, given the title of Lieutenant-General, a high honour in the US Military, only previously bestowed on General George Washington. Grant was sent to command a large portion of the fighting forces, plotting out victory at Shiloh and pushing the men forward into the South. White mentions the strain that the war took on Grant and his time away from Julia, so much so that General Grant saw fit to bring his family closer, lifting his morale and asserting to his men that he had confidence in their victory. Numerous chapters outline Grant's investment in the war and his continued support of Lincoln's cause, becoming the Commanding General of the United States Army by the time the bloodshed reached its zenith. With Lincoln's reelection secured and the South hoisting their white flags, Grant met General Robert E. Lee (former comrade in the Mexican War) at Appomattox to formally sign a peace and end to the Civil War. Grant, the budding politician, sought to ensure Lee received some say in how Southern troops might be handled and what surrender might mean for those men who turned in their uniforms to return to the land. Ever the negotiator, Grant did all he could and would transmit these requests, sensible in his opinion, to Lincoln during the period of reunification. Foreboding and foreshadowing alike, this could be argued as another turning point in the life of Ulysses S. Grant.

With the guns and cannons silent, Grant remained overseer of the US Military and close advisor to Lincoln on how to rebuild. White recounts the night that the Lincolns and Grants were to attend Ford's Theatre, though Julia had the latter couple bow out at the last minute. Lincoln assassinated and his vice-president, Andrew Johnson, assuming the office, it became a time of much struggle for Grant. Holding firm to his promise to Lee at Appomattox, Grant argued for pardons across the board, though Johnson wanted to punish his southern brethren for their secession. Congress, on the other hand, took it upon themselves to rebuild the UNITED States (emphasis added) through two constitutional amendments (end of slavery and black suffrage) and moved onto Reconstruction. Interestingly enough, as White recounts the history of this time, President Johnson did all in his power not to allow Reconstruction, vetoing both major bills, only to have Congress override them. Grant was called upon to help set up military control of the Southern states for a time, with Johnson remarkably not intervening in selection of military leadership. All the while, Grant's ambitions were less based on his hunger for power, but a sense of fairness and desire to balance power with a proverbial carrot rather than the stick. Johnson's actions became troublesome enough to Congress that Articles of Impeachment were brought forth, though they failed to be upheld in the Senate by a single vote. Grant remained on the sidelines during the process, but would not stand in support for his Commander-in-Chief, which spoke volumes. Republicans scrambled for a candidate to run in the upcoming presidential election, turning to Grant, who stood unopposed at the convention. He remained willing to run in the 1868 election, though refused to campaign whatsoever (quite a difference from nowadays). Winning the election, Grant used his time in office to rectify some of the issues he found in the United States. White elucidates some of the key issues related to the price of gold, treatment of the Indian (aboriginal) population, and reestablishing the relationship with Britain. This last issue related to Britain's outward neutrality during the Civil War, though they were seen to offer much support to the Confederates in the form of ammunition. Grant left it to his Cabinet secretaries to handle these issues, which steering America along the track of continued Reconstruction. However, Grant took particular interest in wrestling with legislation surrounding a group that emerged from the embittered Confederate sentiment; the Ku Klux Klan. Strongly supportive of a federal response to the Klan, Grant encouraged lawmakers to pass legislation to ban Klan activities and strengthen the rights of black Americans. A battle that would last for decades (and some feel is still yet to be resolved), Grant wanted nothing more than to balance the playing field yet again.

While some called upon Grant to allow his name to stand for a third consecutive term, scandal amongst Cabinet secretaries left the president less than eager to forge onwards, even though many felt he would have easily raced to victory. Grant and Julia chose, instead, to see the world as private citizens. Boarding a ship, they began travelling around the world, endearing themselves to many crowds. Some went so far as to chant "King of America", though Grant seems never to have let this go to his head. Tired and ready to see the world through another lens, Grant did all he could to enjoy his post-presidential years. However, with the Republican Party in disarray, Grant did allow his name to be put forward for the 1880 GOP Convention, leading well into the voting, but eventually unsuccessful. As White concludes, this was less a disappointment for Grant than his simply wanting to ensure the Party had a strong candidate going into the election. Formally entering his waning years, Grant bandied around the idea of memoirs with friend Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain), though he felt too much had been written about him already. Grant eventually acquiesced, writing about his time in the Civil War and its numerous battles from his own perspective,. Little did he know that the world sought much more, hoping to discover the intricacies of this tanner's son who rose through the military ranks and sought to direct America through some of its most difficult years as it reestablished itself, internally and on the world scene. Stricken with cancer, Grant's final months were painful and his eventual demise saw thousands fill the streets to pay homage one final time. As stated earlier, Grant was one of the three great presidents of the time. One might argue that White helps support that this moniker should remain in place today.

While White admits early on that Grant has been a well-documented president, referring to some of the past biographies that have surfaced, there is something about this piece that captivates the reader from the beginning. The flowing narrative that is full of information and poignant vignettes keeps the story moving along and shows White's attention to detail. While there could have been much more written, or expanded, White's choice of topics to pursue keeps the reader's focus on Grant from waning, while also not offering too many gaps. White effectively argues that Grant was an important man whose passion for people shone through at every turn. Forced to see the worst of men as well as the best, Grant wanting nothing more than to continue the Lincoln legacy of equality, while also forging his own way, once he reached the White House. I have read numerous presidential biographies over the years, many by illustrious writers of our time. White's piece ranks up there with its comprehension, detail, and ease of reading. The curious reader need not feel shy about delving into this, as there is much to sate one's appetite, without feeling the need to be an academic to understand much of the discussion.

Kudos, Mr. White for such a comprehensive and entertaining piece on Ulysses S. Grant. Truly a man for the ages, Grant comes to life under your guidance and I am sure many will enjoy this piece for years to come.

Revisionist and largely appreciative biography of the 18th president of the United States, attempting to rescue him from political scandal and rumors of drunkenness, and restore him to a higher rank among American presidents.

General Grant, to the author, is a personal cipher - White has access to Grant's collected papers and even his correspondence with his beloved wife, Julia, but what he can determine as Grant's intense privacy and introversion - so much so that his troops called him 'the silRevisionist and largely appreciative biography of the 18th president of the United States, attempting to rescue him from political scandal and rumors of drunkenness, and restore him to a higher rank among American presidents.

General Grant, to the author, is a personal cipher - White has access to Grant's collected papers and even his correspondence with his beloved wife, Julia, but what he can determine as Grant's intense privacy and introversion - so much so that his troops called him 'the silent man'. He could be said to be an outsider, both in habits and lack of ostentation in his appearance.

The book takes a straightforward chronological approach. We move from Grant's lowly origins in Ohio as the son of a leather tanner, his time in West Point, and then to his time in the Mexican-American war. This gives him some experience in logistics, and an acute sensitivity to the welfare of civilians. He retires from the army in 1854, stumbles through a few failing businesses (including selling firewood on the streets) before the Civil War began in 1861.

In the popular imagination, Grant is remembered as one of the very few Union generals who was in any way competent. White expounds upon this by noting Grant's own bravery, his patient and humble temperament, and habit of taking advice from other competent officers. White supplements this with excellent depictions of the battles themselves, complete with maps and Grant's own orders and recollections - Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Chattanooga, Vicksburg, the Wilderness, and so on. Grant's war years take up half of the book, and with good reason.

It is a jarring contrast, then to see such an active and diligent war leader have such a conflicted presidency. The friends he appointed to cabinet positions were almost all corrupt, and the political backlash (not to mention the economic fallout from the Panic of 1873) was so severe that the Democratic Party won back most of the Southern seats by the end of his presidency. Even so, the man himself fought against the insurgent Ku Klux Klan, and he pushed in favor of the rights of African-Americans, forming the core of American civil rights law and desperately trying to end the stain of them being killed by angry white mobs with impunity.

He also ended the long nightmare of the 'Indian removal' policy against the Native Americans and was in favor of expansive reservations. Though his policy of education and 'civilizing' them is grotesque by modern standards, it is a marked improvement above what was there before. All this was complicated by General Custer getting himself killed in Little Bighorn, which White passes over.

Grant's life after his presidency was redemptive. He went on a world tour, starting with continental Europe, moving south through the Mediterranean and Egypt, passing through the British Raj, concluding by trying to mediate a deal between Qing China and Meiji Japan, and being welcomed in California as a hero. After a business deal went sour and he was left only with the money in his wallet, he wrote his memoirs with the help of Mark Twain to provide for his wife and children after his death. The memoirs were a lightning success, combining keen military analysis with crisp, direct prose. He died of throat cancer five days after finishing the manuscript.

White's book succeeds in its aim of making you admire this man. Though he does not dare to suggest that Grant would be one of the greatest Americans ever, he quotes Frederick Douglass and Theodore Roosevelt, who did think so. Even with White's attention to detail, I get the feeling that there is more in this man's life that should be explored - how he came to mismanage his cabinet, or more about his wife and daughter, for example. But that is too much for one book, even though White makes 800 pages go quickly. He helps you appreciate Grant for what he did, and what else he tried so hard to do right. ...more

I had high hopes going into this book, as White is a respected historian and Grant is an underappreciated president. Unfortunately, I walked away feeling somewhat disappointed by the experience.

White's book gets off to an excellent start in detailing Grant's early years. In fact, I'd say it's one of the best depictions of the young Grant I have yet to come across. I felt as if I knew Grant as a man in ways that no author has been able to capture. Once we get to the war, White's writing slips noI had high hopes going into this book, as White is a respected historian and Grant is an underappreciated president. Unfortunately, I walked away feeling somewhat disappointed by the experience.

White's book gets off to an excellent start in detailing Grant's early years. In fact, I'd say it's one of the best depictions of the young Grant I have yet to come across. I felt as if I knew Grant as a man in ways that no author has been able to capture. Once we get to the war, White's writing slips noticeably. I don't know how else to put it other than to say that White is simply not strong at writing about battle/war experience. It's a shame because Grant's actions at Shiloh and on the Vicksburg campaign are riveting. Just not in White's telling.

Once we shift into Grant's political career, the book picks back up, but never recaptures the strength of the first third. This isn't to say it's a bad biography by any stretch. It just wasn't what I expected from such a high-profile biographer. And it's not what I'd recommend for someone looking for a solid one-volume Grant bio. For that, I'd point you to Jean Edward Smith's superior book. ...more

A first-rate and refreshing new look at one of the greatest leaders in American history - Ulysses S. Grant. White focuses on Grant's pre-Civil War life, his life as one of America's great military leaders, his presidency years in which he battled for rights for the freed slaves and native Americans and his post-presidency years, culminating in one of the greatest autobiographies of an American leader.

Without U.S. Grant, American would look vastly different today and perhaps not even exist. If yoA first-rate and refreshing new look at one of the greatest leaders in American history - Ulysses S. Grant. White focuses on Grant's pre-Civil War life, his life as one of America's great military leaders, his presidency years in which he battled for rights for the freed slaves and native Americans and his post-presidency years, culminating in one of the greatest autobiographies of an American leader.

Without U.S. Grant, American would look vastly different today and perhaps not even exist. If you love American history from the Civil War era, this is a mandatory read!...more

Ethan Sepp Rafuse recently wrote that studies of Ulysses S. Grant are bordering on hagiography. Rafuse is too kind. Where once Robert E. Lee was the "marble man" of perfect morals, now Grant has been foisted into that position. As of 2017 his wikiquote page is little more than platitudes, either by or for Grant. You will never see quotations from disgruntled soldiers of the Army of the Potomac, nor anything about the rampant corruption of Grant's military and political life. All of which is notEthan Sepp Rafuse recently wrote that studies of Ulysses S. Grant are bordering on hagiography. Rafuse is too kind. Where once Robert E. Lee was the "marble man" of perfect morals, now Grant has been foisted into that position. As of 2017 his wikiquote page is little more than platitudes, either by or for Grant. You will never see quotations from disgruntled soldiers of the Army of the Potomac, nor anything about the rampant corruption of Grant's military and political life. All of which is not to say Grant did not do good things and certainly he was an effective general. His last Vicksburg offensive was the most brilliant campaign of the war. But it is hyperbole to proclaim his military talents as on par with Frederick the Great. Grant took on the Klu Klux Klan and tried to enforce civil rights, but in the end he abandoned the Republicans in the South and hardly seems to have been phased in the aftermath.

White's biography might represent the peak of "Grant mania." Indeed, the tone is as pandering as Clifford Dowdy's deferential treatment of Lee. White does not deal with Grant's numerous defeats in Virginia (Sherman, Sheridan and Farragut were the heroes of 1864-65). Grant's uneven dealings with the Indians is glossed over, as was his plans to take Cuba. Most of all the corruption is ignored. The part where I nearly threw the book was when White praised how Grant handled the gold scandal. Such though is our times. In the 1940s, Grant's corruption and collusion with businessmen was seen as a prelude to the Great Depression. Today, with Wall Street firmly in control of America, we hardly care. Grant's actions are almost a fait accompli. At any rate, the corruption charge was used by the Lost Cause folks, so the argument is a dog whistle for some, the way that discussing "crime" is sometimes considered a racist dog whistle even when it is not. Such are the times.

White does to his credit give Grant credit for trying to bring the sections together after the war, imperfect as it was. Sadly, this no longer plays well, as many increasingly think Grant was too kind. Their hero is John Brown. God save us from people who think it is perfectly fine to cut up untried men with broadswords. But I guess Klan style violence is fine for any cause that is your own. Brown of course was like Grant: complicated, varied, admirable, and despicable. Yet, when you become a "hero" all of that melts away. Just look at writings on Robert E. Lee from fifty years ago. Who is to say we will still make a hero out of Grant and Brown fifty years from now?

Bringing this back to White's book, we have now reached the deification phase of how we remember Grant. If you don't believe me, keep in mind that as of June 2017 one and two star ratings of this book constitute 0% of the book's total ratings. Yet, White's worst sin is that there is nothing here that others have not said before. Simpson likes Grant too much, but is far shrewder than White. Catton was a better writer and had a better grasp of military matters than White. McFeely is hated by pro-Grant people because he refused to ignore what Grant did wrong, and for that reason I still rate him the best. Any of those three men will give you a more accurate picture of Grant than White, and an account that is far better written....more

A fine biography of a man who is both modest and audacious. A fascinating bio of an unusual person.

This is a very thorough bio of Grant, which covers both his personal life and his life as a war general and President. The body of the book is about 650 pages, with another 150 of notes and bibliography. We learn about a modest man, with strong convictions, a knack for personal friendships, though he sometimes appeared stiff and standoffish. We also learn about a man who grows into the roles circumA fine biography of a man who is both modest and audacious. A fascinating bio of an unusual person.

This is a very thorough bio of Grant, which covers both his personal life and his life as a war general and President. The body of the book is about 650 pages, with another 150 of notes and bibliography. We learn about a modest man, with strong convictions, a knack for personal friendships, though he sometimes appeared stiff and standoffish. We also learn about a man who grows into the roles circumstances thrust upon him, especially the Presidency.

I find many things to praise. The sections dealing with Grant's early life give a sense of a family striving to find a home in the expanding nation of the United States, and their political and religious sensibilities. The sections dealing with the Civil War give me a vivid sense of the Western campaigns, including the actual maneuvering of the armies, as well as the political maneuvering that was occurring amongst the military figures and the politicians. The periods of Reconstruction break my heart - once he committed to voting rights and education for former slaves, Grant was disappointed by the political shenanigans that eventually gave most of the power in the South back to the white Democrats who had seceded.

The writing is good, the research is solid, and there is an excellent use of photos and maps throughout the book. The maps are particularly valuable in the war sections, as it makes clear the events occurring.

I think this will become the "standard" bio of Grant for some years to come....more

Ronald White’s “American Ulysses: A Life of Ulysses S. Grant” was published in 2016, two years after I spent eight weeks reading six other biographies of Grant. White is a well-known historian and the author of nine books (including one of my favorites on Abraham Lincoln). He is currently working on “Abraham Lincoln’s Diary” which is a collection of notes and reflections left behind by Lincoln (due out in 2020) and a biography of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlaihttps://bestpresidentialbios.com/2019...

Ronald White’s “American Ulysses: A Life of Ulysses S. Grant” was published in 2016, two years after I spent eight weeks reading six other biographies of Grant. White is a well-known historian and the author of nine books (including one of my favorites on Abraham Lincoln). He is currently working on “Abraham Lincoln’s Diary” which is a collection of notes and reflections left behind by Lincoln (due out in 2020) and a biography of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain (due in 2021).

There is no shortage of compelling biographies of Ulysses Grant – at least eight have been published in the last two decades alone. But ever since I completed my initial round of reading on Grant (in late 2014) I’ve been looking forward to reading this biography of the 18th president. Based on my experience reading White’s “A. Lincoln: A Biography” I had high expectations for “American Ulysses.” But while it is undeniably good…it’s not quite great.

Most readers will find this 659-page biography (not including 100+ pages of notes and bibliography) to be articulate, engaging and generally well-paced. One-fifth of the book is devoted to his early life, just under half the book focuses on his Civil War service and another one-fifth covers his presidency. The remainder is divided between the years just prior to, and those following, his presidency.

The best feature of this biography may be its extensive collection of maps, charts and pictures. These add invaluable context and detail and cover a wide variety of topics – from summaries of specific Civil War campaigns to an excellent diagram illustrating Grant’s extensive post-presidential world tour.

White also sprinkles the narrative with countless interesting tidbits, occasionally drawing connections between people where I never imagined they existed. And while his coverage of Grant’s role in the Civil War is not as shrewd or engaging as I would have liked, his description of the Siege of Vicksburg was gripping and the pages describing Grant’s early days as a newly-promoted Lieutenant General are excellent.

White is the first biographer afforded access to the entire collection of “The Papers of Ulysses S. Grant” and his research included a close examination of correspondence between Grant and his wife. Nevertheless, the narrative is almost entirely familiar – though told with White’s own literary voice – and little seems new or revelatory.

As has been the trend in recent decades, Grant’s image continues to undergo a positive reassessment in White’s biography. Grant’s rumored alcoholism is de-emphasized, his intellectual capacity (and appetite for reading) is highlighted, and his uncommonly courageous commitment to the rights of African-Americans and native Americans is underscored.

Yet notably missing is any concerted effort to really understand Grant’s persona. White makes occasional (but often keen) observations about his personality, including his tendency toward introversion and his clear preference for communicating by letter, but the reader is left to posit the complete portrait of this enigmatic character. His wife and children also remain noticeably elusive.

More disappointing to me is that the biography presents no grand thesis or overarching themes and often seems to be more a collection of revealing morsels and engaging short stories than a continuous, purposeful narrative. And Grant’s presidency is covered in too cursory a manner, failing to fully penetrate many issues or to provide a sweeping assessment of his political legacy.

Overall, Ronald C. White’s “American Ulysses” is a solid but not exceptional examination of the life of Ulysses S. Grant. For readers who are new to the 18th president, this biography will unquestionably provide a suitable, comprehensive introduction to his life. But for anyone who has already navigated Grant’s life, there is probably not enough new insight or analysis to make “American Ulysses” a truly compelling read.

Any review of this book has to be a review of Grant too, because the opinion you bring to this book will largely influence whether you enjoy it.

I'm a Yankee. I want to think well of Grant (I actually own two framed pictures of him). This biographer also thinks well of him, so I enjoyed it the same way the way I enjoy anything that gives intellectual heft to notions that I already hold.

But I also recognize the value of viewing my most cherished preconceptions critically. It's hard to read this bAny review of this book has to be a review of Grant too, because the opinion you bring to this book will largely influence whether you enjoy it.

I'm a Yankee. I want to think well of Grant (I actually own two framed pictures of him). This biographer also thinks well of him, so I enjoyed it the same way the way I enjoy anything that gives intellectual heft to notions that I already hold.

But I also recognize the value of viewing my most cherished preconceptions critically. It's hard to read this book without having a few “I'm supposed to believe THAT?” moments. For example, newly-elected President Grant sells his Washington, D.C., home to a friend for twice its market value – OK, well, he DID save the nation, and it's not inconceivable that there might be a generous and grateful soul who wished to help him out, and besides it never hurts to be in good odor with the Prez, am I right? But then Grant turns around and, almost immediately, appoints the counterparty in the deal to his cabinet. Am I really supposed to believe that a full-grown man who had been an Army quartermaster and long exposed to petty (and not-so-petty) backbiting and scandal mongering would be shocked, shocked to find that anyone found this deal unseemly? Really?

So, I thought to myself that Grant was not quite the naive, trusting soul with bad friends, as goes the pro-Grant narrative. But THEN, much later, ex-President Grant loses everything, except for the cash he and his wife have in their pockets, to a pre-Ponzi ponzi scheme, I thought: “Well, maybe he WAS a trusting innocent after all.”

I believe it was in Harlan Ellison's novella “A Boy and His Dog” where the hero says the problem with knowing how to read is that you ask more questions than if you were stupid.

This is a really fine biography of Ulysses S. Grant [sic]. That was not his real name, but in a clerical error, that is how we know him today. This is a well written book that reads nicely. We see the trajectory of his life from childhood through his West Point experience to his army career (featuring a very solid performance in the Mexican War and a career clothed with questions about drinking in the Northwest) to his floundering in private life (ending up working for his father in Galena, IlliThis is a really fine biography of Ulysses S. Grant [sic]. That was not his real name, but in a clerical error, that is how we know him today. This is a well written book that reads nicely. We see the trajectory of his life from childhood through his West Point experience to his army career (featuring a very solid performance in the Mexican War and a career clothed with questions about drinking in the Northwest) to his floundering in private life (ending up working for his father in Galena, Illinois) to his almost unbelievable work in the Civil War, rising from "who's he" to becoming the top military officer in the Union Army. His post-War army work and his rise to the presidency and his later life are all chronicled well.

The book does well at acquaint us with Grant and giving us a sense of his life. High points: development of his relationship with his wife, his rise from a lower ranking regimental officer to commander-in-chief of the Union forces, his role as president, his desperate race to finish his autobiography before his death. Some key points: his efforts as president to protect rights of African-Americans, his determination to create an environment in which Americans and Indians could live in peace, and his efforts to deal with scandals within his administration (although he was himself "clean" of the taint).

A well written & readable book about a man not well known by Americans. White cuts through all the false facts about Grant that are accepted in other biographies, and tells the story of the man himself.Recommended reading.

I started watching a documentary on Netflix about the Civil War and it spiked an interest in the time period and people involved. I decided to start with an author I’m already familiar with and have enjoyed in the past.

I’m someone who needs an easy introduction to topics like these, before recently I wasn’t that interested in history and I’m trying to play catch up on years of ignoring the topic. I find that Ronald C. White writes in a way that’s engaging and also entry-level for those people wiI started watching a documentary on Netflix about the Civil War and it spiked an interest in the time period and people involved. I decided to start with an author I’m already familiar with and have enjoyed in the past.

I’m someone who needs an easy introduction to topics like these, before recently I wasn’t that interested in history and I’m trying to play catch up on years of ignoring the topic. I find that Ronald C. White writes in a way that’s engaging and also entry-level for those people without history degrees.

Like in his other biographies, White begins with Grant’s childhood and taking the time to introduce us to many members of his family that helped shape him as a person. He was a good student but stuck out from the crowd a bit due to his lack of interest in hunting. Most of his peers would go out with their fathers and hunt from time to time, but Grant always refused. He was one of the earliest animal rights activists and carried it through his lifetime. I sort of knew right here I would have a soft spot for the guy, as I too am an animal lover. Later on in the book, there was a scene where Grant came across one of his soldiers abusing his pack mule.

One day during the siege, Grant was observed walking the outer line when he encountered a mule-team driver beating and cursing one of the mules. He ordered the man to stop. The animal’s abuser, seeing a man with a blouse and no sign of rank, turned and began to swear at him. Grant had the man arrested and brought to his headquarters. Only then did the mule driver realize whom he had insulted. The man was ordered to be tied up by his thumbs. When released, the contrite soldier apologized for his language, telling Grant he did not know to whom he was speaking. Grant explained that he had punished the soldier not because of what he’d said to his commanding general: “I could defend myself, but the mule could not.

He was also very devoted to his wife, Julia and had more respect than most for women in his day in age. He always made it a point to treat women with respect whether it be his own wife and daughters or someone else’s.

His family had many outspoken abolitionists in their ranks, making it rather easy to figure out which side of the Civil War his family was going to land on. After the Civil War racism and reconstruction were paramount in everyone’s lives. I really enjoyed knowing that Grant did try his best, even though he wasn’t all that successful, to try and uplift the former slaves and bring about some semblance of equality. He resisted the efforts of the KKK and spoke out against them publicly. He was even branded a “Black Republican” and without hundreds of thousands of freed black men, he would have lost the presidential race.

I think it’s a shame that all I knew about this guy before the biography were his struggles with alcoholism. This book did go into that, and how his wife Julia helped him through some particularly difficult episodes – but he was so much more than that.

This book also left me feeling pretty down, the end of Grant’s life wasn’t all that great and it was largely due to his trusting nature. He believed and invested money in people he thought were friends, but were actually just conmen. He was scammed out of his money more than once, he was almost broke when he was diagnosed with throat cancer due to his love of cigars. It just seemed so tragic that someone with as many strengths as he had still had blind spots and faults that lead to his near financial destruction. He tried his best to write memoirs day and night before he died so there would be something his family could sell and make money off of once he was gone. He didn’t die without friends and admirers, over one million people marched along with his funeral procession, marking it as one of the most attended events of the time.

I found this book to be utterly compelling, well written and extremely narrative. There was so much to the book that I didn’t even know where to start with this review. It covered everything you could possibly want to know about Grant – his childhood, his rise in rank in the military, his Civil War experiences, his presidency and later years. I hate dry history books and I think that’s why I had gravitated away from them in the past. I strongly encourage anyone remotely interested in this time period or the man himself to pick this one up – it’s going to be one I remember for a long time.

This detailed biography of Grant has excellent coverage of Grant’s role in the Civil War, but also a great deal of exposition about Grant’s character. The author presents Grant as someone who consistently surprised both friends and opponents by his humility, modesty, and magnanimity.

The author is trying to rectify the reputation of a man now known primarily for military genius (or at the least, military perseverance). For many years before recent times, however, Grant was regarded as one of theThis detailed biography of Grant has excellent coverage of Grant’s role in the Civil War, but also a great deal of exposition about Grant’s character. The author presents Grant as someone who consistently surprised both friends and opponents by his humility, modesty, and magnanimity.

The author is trying to rectify the reputation of a man now known primarily for military genius (or at the least, military perseverance). For many years before recent times, however, Grant was regarded as one of the “Trinity of Great American Leaders” along with George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Theodore Roosevelt wrote in 1900, "Mightiest among the mighty dead loom the three great figures of Washington, Lincoln, and Grant." In the second rank Roosevelt placed Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton.

Moreover, Frederick Douglass himself, who knew both Lincoln and Grant, thought more of Grant in some ways, saying of Grant after his presidential term:

“To him more than any other man the Negro owes his enfranchisement and the Indian a humane policy. In the matter of the protection of the freedman from violence his moral courage surpassed that of his party; hence his place as its head was given to timid men, and the country was allowed to drift, instead of stemming the current with stalwart arms.”

And in fact, White spends a great deal of time recounting the problems after the Civil War, with the South trying to suppress blacks in every way they could, and about the measures Grant tried to take (ultimately without success) to prevent that from happening. Both Congress and those in power in the South (many of whom had been Confederates during the Civil War) resisted efforts by Grant to ensure civil equality and to rein in the violence of a new organization, The Ku Klux Klan.

Grant was elected to the presidency in 1868 with a total popular vote of 3,013,421, just slightly over 300,000 more than that received by incumbent President Andrew Johnson. In the run-up to the election, the Democrats boasted of their intent to suppress rights of blacks, highlighting the difference between their stance and that of Grant's, who was known for his determination to enforce the now constitutionally-protected rights of blacks. Grant was branded a “black Republican” and a “nigger lover.” One of the slogans of the opposition was “Let All Good Men Vote No Nigger.” As the author observes, “it was not lost on the opposition that without the support of approximately 400,000 black freedman, [Grant] would have lost the popular vote.” Whites intended to see that didn’t happen again through a campaign of violence and voter intimidation.

During Grant's presidency, he was equally ineffective not only in protecting blacks but in helping Native Americans, though not for lack of trying. But the greed for their land by whites, and racism against them, were strong forces Grant was unable to counter. Even William Tecumseh Sherman and Philip Sheridan, his close friends both during and after the war, disagreed with Grant on the disposition of the Indians. (Grant, to his discredit, did not try to rein in the extermination policies of Sherman and Sheridan.)

And then there was Grant’s cabinet. For most positions he selected old friends and family members rather than people who were necessarily qualified. Many of them came from relatively poor backgrounds, and were enticed by the opportunities that political power offered them for graft. Grant was slow to recognize the corrupt behavior of men he thought were his loyal friends, and had difficulty accepting that they would betray him in that way. Eventually, the chair of his Indian Commission, his personal secretary, his secretary of war, and his secretary of the interior were all forced to resign in financial corruption scandals. In addition there were others around him who participated in a variety of schemes to enrich themselves by the exploitation of others, but managed to escape punishment. Although Grant was guilty of nothing but poor character judgment, the wrongdoings of those in his cabinet contributed to the diminution of his reputation.

Indeed, ultimately, as White shows, while Grant was in some senses adored for his fundamental decency, it was also the trait that led to most of his failures. Too often he gave the benefit of the doubt, and too often expected that others would act as he would. Alas, he had quite a few more better angels riding on his shoulders than other people. He also was loathe to engage in the unsavory and extremely contentious political wrangling that Lincoln had relished, and at which Lincoln so excelled. The political process was odious to Grant, an aversion that unfortunately affected his efficacy in the role as president.

Grant never understood, or even wanted to understand, politics the way he did the military. He certainly would never have appointed friends and/or relatives to lead battles; he knew better. And yet it did not register to him that bad leadership in political offices as well as on the field of battle could also inflict severe damage to people’s lives.

After Grant’s two-terms in office, also highlighted by some positive achievements, such as an important peace treaty with Great Britain resolving issues left over from the Civil War, the Grants took off for an overseas tour of many countries. Upon returning, Grant once again was the victim of financial graft by someone he thought he could trust, this time by a Ponzi scheme, that left him and Julia impoverished. Moreover, Grant was diagnosed with throat cancer and knew he needed to find a way to provide support for Julia and their family after he died. Thus he embarked on writing his memoirs, which are still considered to be a literary classic.

Grant died on July 23, 1885 only a few days after finishing his manuscript. His funeral procession in New York was attended by some million and a half admirers.

One development of which I was unaware was the unexpected friendship, after the deaths of both Grant and Jefferson Davis, of their widows. Julia Grant and Varina Davis met in 1893 in New York, where both had come to live. The two not only became close friends, but their two daughters also became close friends. After Julia died in 1902, Varina publicly defended both Grants for the rest of her life (she herself died in 1906). Julia’s son General Frederick Grant sent an artillery company to escort Varina’s cortege as it made its way out of New York City.

Evaluation: White does an excellent job of providing a deeply researched, balanced portrayal of a man whom he clearly admires, while not withholding aspects of Grant’s story that show him in less-than-perfect light. So many books are devoted to Grant’s prowess in military strategy. This book also introduces us to Grant as a boy, a man, and a devoted husband and father. White’s strong emphasis on Grant’s commitment to equal rights, to justice for freed blacks, and compassion about the plight of Native Americans, so unusual for a man of his times, does a great service to his memory. This book will help set the record straight for readers. ...more

American Ulysses is a new biography of General Ulysses Grant, written by an author who has written extensively on the time, including a biography of Abraham Lincoln. It is a very good biography, although a bit constrained by the author's focus on telling a clear story about the life of Grant, who was a more complex man than the story lets on. I don't disagree with White's analysis but wish that his frequent summing up and foreshadowing could have been more attenuated and the reader give more ofAmerican Ulysses is a new biography of General Ulysses Grant, written by an author who has written extensively on the time, including a biography of Abraham Lincoln. It is a very good biography, although a bit constrained by the author's focus on telling a clear story about the life of Grant, who was a more complex man than the story lets on. I don't disagree with White's analysis but wish that his frequent summing up and foreshadowing could have been more attenuated and the reader give more of a chance to see the nuance of this amazing person. White is under quite a burden with this biography, in that Grant's own personal memoirs, which focused on his war exploits, are extraordinary and provide one of the few exceptions to the justified skepticism that one should always bring to the memoirs important military and political persons.

Renewed historical interest in Grant has had the effect of resurfacing his reputation, which had been tarnished by the scandals in his second administration. He shares such a development with Eisenhower, who recent major biographies have shown to be a very capable president. This is a very good development and overdue. Anyone who has read Grant's memoirs will know that this was a man of great ability and character and this new biography reaffirms that.

(Additional). This revisionism is part of a larger revision of our thinking around the Civil War and its aftermath. This is most pronounced around Reconstruction but also affects our views of the run-up to the war and the economics of cotton. With Reconstruction, scholars like Eric Foner have argued conclusively that Reconstruction failed not because of the corruption scalawags or carpetbaggers but because northern politicians wanted to move on and build new alliances and thus turned over the administration to local unreconstructed politicians -- leading to the prospering of the KKK, the spread of Jim Crow laws, and the beginnings of the northern migration in WWI. How does this apply to Grant? White's story of Grant's presidency makes it clear that Grant wanted to use Federal resources and force if needed to protect the rights of freed slaves, but progressively lost the ability to support these efforts as guilded age politics moved elsewhere. Grant's problem was not one of corruption but of overdependence on trusted subordinates who ultimately failed to measure up, coupled with an inability to control the broader political landscape. White is perhaps too sympathetic to Grant here, but the general lines of the story are plausible. The political dimension of reconstruction in White's account leads one straight into current politics, with the first elected Black president turning over power to a new administration that appears to be little more than a political reaction to his administration, coupled with a reaction to the 2008 financial crisis. (Grant had this economic dimension too, in the lengthy recession after the Panic of 1873).

There is no way to summarize the story. The military narrative is just plain amazing and no doubt draws from Grant's memoirs. The story of Grant's early career is interesting (for example, I had not realized how little time he actually had spent in Galena, Il). It leaves lots of questions unanswered, however, the most notable for me was why Grant left the Army initially when he did. What comes across as interesting from his war years and time as president is his style of managing and his temperament. It reinforces how Grant was one of the first great modern US generals, in that he paid attention to supply and logistics. It also showed how his style was very effective at bringing together ad harmonizing the big egos of successful soldiers. He employed a similar style as president, albeit with less enduring and less endearing results. Indeed, regarding the scandals in his second administration, Grant appears to have been blind to the potential for significant agency and ethical problems among his subordinates. One comes to wonder how Grant can be so successful as a general but come across as a naive magnet for questionable subordinates as president. I finished the book tempted to give him the benefit of the doubt, but one really wonders if that is justified or if White is not pursuing this question of accountability for the scandals as strongly as he could or should.

The section on Grant's time after leaving office seems thin. I already knew of Mark Twain's role in getting Grant to write his memoirs, but the accounts of his world trip or of his bad fortune in the economic panics are not as interesting or informative.

Overall, White has written a compelling book. I felt too much of the hand of the biographer in the story to be fully satisfied. Grant's life was so interesting that this should not have been necessary....more

Note: This review replaces the much shorter one I posted a couple of weeks ago

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Another in a series of books attempting to restore the life and career of Ulysses S. Grant into proper historical perspective. Undoubtedly the most popular man in America at the time of his death in 1885, his reputation has taken a beating in the years since the end of Reconstruction. Due to a combination of Northern exhaustion after 15 years of Civil War and Reconstruction, and a purposeful campaign by Southern hisNote: This review replaces the much shorter one I posted a couple of weeks ago

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Another in a series of books attempting to restore the life and career of Ulysses S. Grant into proper historical perspective. Undoubtedly the most popular man in America at the time of his death in 1885, his reputation has taken a beating in the years since the end of Reconstruction. Due to a combination of Northern exhaustion after 15 years of Civil War and Reconstruction, and a purposeful campaign by Southern historians and heritage groups looking to recast the war as anything other than a fight to retain the institution of slavery, many myths about Grant have taken hold in popular imagination.

Ronald C. White, in American Ulysses: A Life of Ulysses S. Grant, has given us a very accessible, and personal, biography of Grant that puts to rest many of the myths about him that have gained a foothold in popular memory since his death. He also provides what I consider to be one of the best reviews of Grant's Presidency that has so far been published; one that puts it into proper historical context given the many challenges he faced after the disastrous Johnson years.

At the moment of his death on July 23, 1885, Ulysses S. Grant was arguably the most revered man in America. He had shepherded the Union war effort to ultimate victory, had completed two terms as President, which, if not spectacularly successful in hindsight, had done little to diminish his popularity, and he had riveted the nation with his heroic struggle against time, as he raced to complete his memoirs before the ravages of throat cancer took his life. Those memoirs, completed only five days before his death, are the widely acknowledged gold standard among military autobiographies, and their popularity restored the Grant family fortune. The country went into deep and prolonged mourning after his death, with 1.5 million people attending his New York funeral. Despite this though, By the end of the 19th century, Grant's reputation had undergone a large, and largely negative, change.

Ask the average person today what they know about Ulysses S. Grant and you are as likely to hear that he was a "butcher" and a "drunk," as you are to hear he was the preeminent military figure of the Civil war whose skill and strategic genius saved the union. As with most myths however, the truth is far more complicated. And in the case of Grant, they are almost universally incorrect. White does a very good job of separating fact from fiction with regards to these myths.

One of the most pernicious of these myths surrounds Grant's alleged drinking problem. It is supposedly the cause of his forced resignation from the Army, and was at the root of any setback he experienced throughout the war. Grant didn't discipline his troops after the initial victory at Belmont, so he must have been drinking. Grant wasn't prepared for Albert Sidney Johnston's attach at Shiloh, so he must have been drinking. Grant unwisely ordered a last assault at Cold Harbor, so he must have been drinking. And on and on and on…

Politics too played a part. Rumors that Grant had resigned from the Army in 1854 because of his drinking allowed rival Generals, usually those annoyed that Grant's success was getting in the way of their glory, to raise the specter that he had fallen off the wagon and should be replaced, with the usual recommendation being that the replacement should be the one making the charge.

White deals with these rumors in a very effective way. Rather than devoting a whole chapter on the topic, which to me has the effect of elevating their credibility, he simply deals with them within the timeline of the narrative. He does not assert Grant did not drink - he clearly did - he simply notes there is no convincing evidence that Grant routinely drank to excess, or that his drinking had any effect on his military performance. Contemporary evidence, other than repeated rumors, are almost non-existent. Every person sent to Grant's command to investigate these rumors, reported back they had no basis in fact. So the reality then, as White shows, is that while Grant was not a teetotaler, he did not have a serious drinking problem. And there is not a scrap of evidence drinking ever had an effect on his performance during the war.

Another persistent myth about Grant relates to his military skill. Southerners, eager to elevate their participation in the war as a heroic struggle against a marauding north intent on trampling rights guaranteed them in the Constitution, had to come up with ways to explain their defeat that didn't involve admitting any fault with their (lost) cause. From this sprang first, the assertion that Southern soldiers were superior to the northern counterparts. Whereas they portrayed themselves as selfless warriors merely looking to defend hearth and home, Northern troops were depicted as the lackeys of money grubbers looking to strip the South of its wealth, or, as so eloquently put by Shelby Foote, Confederates believed "one Southern soldier was worth ten Yankee hirelings." Ironically, an argument could persuasively be made that the reality was exactly the opposite. Confederate soldiers were fighting so the landed gentry could maintain their way of life, one that depended on slavery. It was the North that was fighting for a concept - "Union."

The second, and possibly the most important part of this effort to recast the war, was the importance of demonstrating the superiority of Confederate Generals. The post war south wanted heroes to latch on to. They had to be portrayed as honorable men, fighting for a righteous cause. They also had to find an explanation for their defeat other than the superiority of their northern counterparts. This was particularly true with their most idolized figure - Robert E. Lee.Southerners dealt with these needs in two ways. First, they asserted the only way the North could have defeated the South was through brute force and overwhelming numbers. At no point, they asserted, were southern generals outmatched, or southern troops outfought. They simply lacked the resources needed to win. Secondly, in order to elevate the character of their hero Lee, they had to deflate that of the man who defeated him - Ulysses S. Grant.

White doesn't deal extensively in what ifs related to the manpower argument. The South certainly had the resources it needed to win the war had it employed an effective strategy. It didn't. He does debunk the notion that Grant was victorious solely through the application of overwhelming force. After all, the North had that same advantage from the beginning of the war, and were not able to defeat Lee. Only when an able General, one who understood the strategies needed to overwhelm Lee, took command, were they able to win. The fact is, as White shows, northern troops were equally as brave and skilled as their southern counterparts; and Grant was superior to Lee, particularly as a strategic thinker. Lee was myopically focused on the eastern theater, while Grant viewed the conflict as a nationwide one. Where Lee cared little for what happened in the west, Grant realized that success there made victory in the east more attainable.

White does a very effective job debunking most of the negative assertions about Grants military ability. He does not do this by ignoring Grant's failures (e.g. Cold Harbor), or by denigrating the ability of Robert E. Lee. He presents an effective, though not ground breaking review of Grant's efforts up to his elevation as General in Chief, and provides a very fair analysis of events after that point.

The only conclusion that can plausibly be drawn from available evidence is that Grant, far from being a butcher of men, was in fact a skilled tactician and strategist, who made effective use of his resources. He put in place an effective strategy for winning the war, and executed it with considerable skill. Robert E. Lee did present the toughest resistance Grant had come up against during the war, but Grant was more than equal to the task. His casualty rates during the Overland Campaign were appalling of course, but that was the expected result of the type of fighting needed to bludgeon the South into submission. Always on the attack Grant was guaranteed to suffer more casualties. But as a percentage of his Army they were no worse than Lee's. And if one looks at the entire war, Grant lost considerably fewer men while in command than Lee did.

Following Lee's surrender, Grant's role changed. He entered the political realm, first as General in Chief under the volatile Andrew Johnson, then as interim Secretary of War, and finally as President. White provides an excellent review of this time, far better than most biographies of Grant which tend to rush through this period.

For many years, Grant has ranked near the bottom of the list of effective Presidents. But in recent years, as historians have begun to take a more dispassionate look at his two terms, that ranking has improved. White does what many biographers have not, examined his Presidency in the context of the challenges he faced.

As President, after two year of conflict under Andrew Johnson who aided the South as it tried to reassert white dominance, Grant faced a daunting task. Not only was he trying to repair the country, he was trying to protect the rights of newly freed slaves. Ambivalent about slavery before the war, Grant became a staunch supporter of full citizenship for former slaves after it.

He made significant progress pushing back the Ku Klux Klan, and successfully navigated the rough political waters that went along with military reconstruction in the South. Many assert, including I think the author, that Grant should be considered the first Civil Rights President. Strong evidence for this includes the views of Frederick Douglass, who had a tepid opinion of Lincoln's efforts on behalf of blacks, but strongly support Grant's. The support of Jewish leaders as well, who were insulted by Grant's infamous General Order #11 in 1862 that singled out Jewish traders for condemnation, but who came around to view him as an ally, is another piece of evidence in favor of that view. And not only was he a proponent of full rights for African Americans, but he tried to install a liberal policy regarding Native Americans, believing the government had trampled on their rights.

As events eventually overtook the country, and weariness after 15 years of war and the conflict of Reconstruction set in, much of what Grant did and tried to do, was rolled back by subsequent administrations. It would be nearly a century before blacks were able to get restored to them anything close to their full rights again. But, Grant's efforts here were noble, and were for a time successful. He deserves credit for that.

Grant also had to deal with several economic issues during his administration. Early in his first term, wealthy speculators Jay Gould and James Fisk tried to corner the gold market. Grant intervened to stop them just in time, the result of which was Black Friday, a panic that led to months of financial devastation. White argues Grant's quick action should be credited. While that is true, I think he goes too far in absolving Grant here. He either didn’t realize or didn’t want to realize, that he was being used by Gould and Fisk. Had he been more diligent, he might have been able to terminate their machinations without the subsequent panic.

White also gives Grant too much credit for the way he dealt with the depression of 1873. The crisis, which was the result of over speculation in railroad stock, led Grant to further contract the money supply in order to prevent over inflation. White implies this was the correct move in that it kept inflation from getting out of hand. However, at the same time it caused interest rates to rise, which hurt those in debt (as Grant acknowledged and agonized over), and severely limited the amount of money available to companies with growth plans. Those actions probably prolonged the downturn.

White compares Grant's steady, no nonsense reaction to the crisis to Franklin Roosevelt's reaction to the Great Depression of the 1930s, as he tried to cheer lead the economy into action, which White implies was a less effective strategy. This is not a good comparison. Grant's reaction was to the immediate crisis as it occurred, while FDR's was to an economy that had been in depression for three years, and which had sapped the countries will. A more apt comparison would have been to Hoover, whose reaction was much the same as Grant's, a refusal to apply stimulus, thus prolonging the crisis.

White also deals effectively with the numerous scandals that occurred during Grant's two terms. Seemingly unable to believe anyone he had known and trusted could act duplicitously, he was slow to remove corrupt officials, and remained loyal to those taking advantage of their relationship with him for far too long. Grant was personally incorruptible, but was seemingly blind to corruption around him until it instigated a crisis. This is the reason Grant is ranked as a middling President rather than an above average one.

Overall I think anyone with an interest in Ulysses S. Grant would enjoy this book immensely. It is generally fair (with the exceptions I noted), and effectively deals with the many myths surrounding Grant and his career. He does a nice job of tying Grant's life as a boy and student at West Point to his later action as General and President. He does a nice job of recounting Grant's career, and his service in both Mexico and in the Civil War. He provides a very lucid account of Grant's Presidency that puts it into the context of the challenges he faced. He also gives a great account of Grant's world tour after his White House years, and a very moving one of his final death struggle.

Most importantly, it is very well written

There are flaws, some of which I noted. He was at times quick to give Grant the benefit of the doubt in cases where there was an equally plausible counter argument. He also seemed to take great pains to portray Grant as a devout Christian. He was a believer of course, but I don't think religion played a particularly important role in his life. And finally I think he gave Grant too much credit for his reactions to the gold crisis in 1869 and the depression of 1873.

White’s assessment of Grant is largely favorable. White’s Grant comes off as decent and fair, with a strong sense of morality and a certain sophistication. Assessments of his presidency tend to go back and forth; White appears to conclude that he was average at worst, while emphasizing his personal commitment to his sense of justice. The Civil War tends to be the best part of White’s book. The narrative here is smooth and energetic.

White’s treatment of GranAn engaging and well-written biography.

White’s assessment of Grant is largely favorable. White’s Grant comes off as decent and fair, with a strong sense of morality and a certain sophistication. Assessments of his presidency tend to go back and forth; White appears to conclude that he was average at worst, while emphasizing his personal commitment to his sense of justice. The Civil War tends to be the best part of White’s book. The narrative here is smooth and energetic.

White’s treatment of Grant's presidency is solid, and he links the many scandals to Grant’s trusting nature. He also concludes that Grant’s accomplishments as a president were not terribly significant. Oddly, however, White describes Grant’s Indian peace policy without mentioning the actual Indian wars that took place during his presidency. And the book is not always too insightful when it comes to Grant’s thinking.

American Ulysses was a good biography of Civil War general and the 18th President of the United States Ulysses S. Grant. I learned alot about Grant's personality and character in this book. He was an introvert, who was calm, self-less, loving to his wife, and a fighter for the rights of Native Americans and African Americans. I first learned of this book when I heard the author, Ronald White, in an interview about the book on C-SPAN's Q&A. I was drawn to it because White mentioned how GrantAmerican Ulysses was a good biography of Civil War general and the 18th President of the United States Ulysses S. Grant. I learned alot about Grant's personality and character in this book. He was an introvert, who was calm, self-less, loving to his wife, and a fighter for the rights of Native Americans and African Americans. I first learned of this book when I heard the author, Ronald White, in an interview about the book on C-SPAN's Q&A. I was drawn to it because White mentioned how Grant cracked down on the KKK during his presidency when they violently tried to suppress African Americans right to vote. Denis McDonough, who served as Chief of Staff to President Obama also recommended the book on The Ezra Klein Show.

I enjoyed reading and learning more about Grant. This was the first biography about him that I have read. The one drawback is that the section (40% of the book) on his time during the Civil War was boring, especially the focus on all the battles. I was more interested in Grant's role during Reconstruction and his presidency. I was very fascinated with his life post-presidency. Grant lived a very interesting life and I'm glad that I had the chance to learn more about it.

I will close with a quote from William Tecumseh Sherman in a letter that he wrote to Grant upon Grant's promotion to brigadier general that I believe is useful advice to anyone: "If you can continue heretofore to be yourself, simple, honest, and unpretending, you will enjoy through life the respect and love of friends..."...more

Ulysses S. Grant was a general and a President. Today he is better remembered as winning general, but his reputation as a President is middling at best. His presidency is remembered more for the scandals that emerged among members of his cabinet, than his efforts to protect and extend civil rights to African Americans recently freed from slavery, and his attempt to create a humane policy toward Native Americans. What President Grant needs is a careful but sympathetic biographer. He has found thaUlysses S. Grant was a general and a President. Today he is better remembered as winning general, but his reputation as a President is middling at best. His presidency is remembered more for the scandals that emerged among members of his cabinet, than his efforts to protect and extend civil rights to African Americans recently freed from slavery, and his attempt to create a humane policy toward Native Americans. What President Grant needs is a careful but sympathetic biographer. He has found that in Ronald C. White, the author of several important works on President Lincoln.

American Ulysses is a must read biography, not only because it is well written by an excellent historian, but it opens up a life in ways that reveal complexity and growth.

In the course of the book we encounter a man who was raised in southern Ohio by an Abolitionist father, but who married into a Missouri slave owning family. This made for a complicated view of race and slavery, but it also allowed for an evolving understanding. We learn in the course of the book that Grant was a committed, if not always devout Methodist. Grant was an avid reader, but a middling student at West Point. In the book, we encounter a man who served in the Mexican War, with bravery and diligence. During that war he came to respect the Mexican people and the beauty of their land. He came to admire the demeanor of General Zachary Taylor, who showed respect for his men, and who was not too concerned about his appearance, something that would mark Grant as a Union General. We also discover that he found civilian life difficult to manage. Having an aptitude for organization, he still found it difficult to be successful in business.

Having left the army several a number of years prior to the advent of the Civil War, Grant didn't have an easy road to leadership. He finally was appointed a colonel over Illinois volunteers. Nonetheless, he was able to work his way up the ranks, showing a willingness to lead and gaining the respect of his men and fellow officers. His success in the West led Lincoln to bring him east to oversee the war effort. What made Grant distinctive was his drive. Whereas many other generals were afraid to pursue their quarry, Grant was dogged. He also brought in generals he could trust to lead, men like Sherman and Sheridan. What is interesting is the change that occurred in Grant as the war progressed. Starting out as ambivalent about slavery, by the end of the war he had become an advocate not only for emancipation but full civil rights. He would carry this into his Presidency.

Grant is known for his magnanimity toward his defeated enemy at Appomattox. Recognizing the need to bring a nation together he chose not to impose harsh terms on Robert E. Lee. Over time he would gain the respect not only of people in the north but of the south as well. In fact, one of his life-long friends was a Confederate General, James Longstreet, who had stood up at his wedding to Julia Dent, the love of his life.

As President he attempted to pursue Reconstruction in a way that would improve the lives of African Americans in the south. He strongly opposed groups like the Ku Klux Klan and other supremicist efforts, and was dismayed at how his successor allowed supremicist efforts to reemerge. His time in office is tarnished by the unfettered pursuit of wealth that marked post-bellum America. While cabinet members, people he trusted, abused his trust and loyalty, there is no evidence of his own corruption.

We learn as well about Grant's post-war years. His two year trip abroad allowed him to see the world, but also build relationships with leaders across the world. This was especially true with regard to China and Japan, two countries at odds with each other, and with whom Grant was able to mediate a dispute, gaining respect from both countries. He recognized the dangers of Euro-American involvement in Asia and warned leaders about the dangers of allowing for these powers to get involved in disputes.

We learn as well that Presidents in that era didn't have pensions.So he had to earn a living. He tried his hand at business, but was betrayed by one he thought was a friend, losing everything. He was able, however, to provide his wife with memoirs published by Mark Twain, memoirs that were finished only days before his death. These memoirs, detailing his war years, are seen as among the great pieces of American literature.

At the time of his death Grant was still highly regarded. His burial was the largest gathering in United States history to that point. Unfortunately, his reputation has suffered over time. That's probably to be expected. We have short memories. But in the late 19th century he was ranked with Washington and Lincoln, as the greatest of American Presidents. We can be thankful that Ron White, a careful and thoughtful historian, who understands American political history as well as American religious history. Yes, Ron White is a church historian as well as a general historian, and that shows in the way he treats Grant's religious commitments.

White makes much use of Grant's own letters, as well as the letters of friends. He visits sites that are linked to Grant. He reads the papers and letters of others who engaged with Grant. He brings his knowledge of Lincoln to the table as well.

This was a book that was a pleasure to read. It's well-written, well-documented, history that takes seriously the importance of narrative. Maybe this will be a great Christmas present!!

The passage of time has not been good to Ulysses Grant's reputation thanks to Lost Cause writers who, in order to paint the Confederate cause as glorious, began chipping away at Grant's reputation after Grant's death. During Grant's lifetime, he was much admired and considered one of three greatest American leaders along with Washington and Lincoln. Ronald C. White's excellent biography has helped revive this reputation. The portion of the book that stood out for me was the section on the CivilThe passage of time has not been good to Ulysses Grant's reputation thanks to Lost Cause writers who, in order to paint the Confederate cause as glorious, began chipping away at Grant's reputation after Grant's death. During Grant's lifetime, he was much admired and considered one of three greatest American leaders along with Washington and Lincoln. Ronald C. White's excellent biography has helped revive this reputation. The portion of the book that stood out for me was the section on the Civil War. White's writing style is clear and concise when describing the battles and the interactions that Grant had with his subordinates and almost read like a novel. I would recommend this one for those interested in American History....more

Loved it! It was interesting to read a book about the Civil War that was just focused on one man. Grant was such a exceptional person - it was wonderful to learn more about him. Very well written biography.

Grant is one of the few American heroes or Presidents who really need a multiple volume biography. There is so much to cover: the Mexican-American war, the Civil War, a two term Presidency, and the heroic writing of his memoirs while emaciated by cancer. In fact, all of the above have evoked massive single volumes on those areas alone. In 659 pages, White accomplishes a breezy, engaging, revelatory read, one that finally re-engages areas of Grant's persona that were long since assumed settled.

ThGrant is one of the few American heroes or Presidents who really need a multiple volume biography. There is so much to cover: the Mexican-American war, the Civil War, a two term Presidency, and the heroic writing of his memoirs while emaciated by cancer. In fact, all of the above have evoked massive single volumes on those areas alone. In 659 pages, White accomplishes a breezy, engaging, revelatory read, one that finally re-engages areas of Grant's persona that were long since assumed settled.

The "settled" history and legend is that Grant was an unintellectual drunk, deaf to the death toll of his engagements in the war and completely inept as President. The truth, as deftly revealed by White, is that Grant was an avid reader, an investment that paid off when writing his memoirs. He was hypersensitive to cruelty, as evidenced by his love for horses and animals, and his few outbursts of anger were in defense of animals exposed to cruelty. Grant was also a man who few had negative opinions of, where ex-Confederates actually mourned his death, where multiple eyewitnesses attested to his sobriety (funny how he was never disciplined or noticed to be hopelessly drunk), and even Mark Twain - though with financial interest but not known to be dishonest - openly praised his literary capabilities.

If you want the straightforward positive biography, this is the one. It reads very easily and is handsomely illustrated throughout. It maintains its focus on its subject without wandering into chapters on Lincoln or Lee. It's not overly academic. A great popular biography....more

White writes a powerful and moving biography of a great man. Many people made out at one time to be heroes may at another time be discovered as corrupt, or may falter in fortitude to right principles, and be the cause of scandal and disappointment. But Grant remained a man of steadfast integrity. He embodied a calm yet forceful determination to see responsibilities and chosen tasks to their end. Most highly regarded characteristic of his was a gentle demeanor animated by a grand, warm heart, whiWhite writes a powerful and moving biography of a great man. Many people made out at one time to be heroes may at another time be discovered as corrupt, or may falter in fortitude to right principles, and be the cause of scandal and disappointment. But Grant remained a man of steadfast integrity. He embodied a calm yet forceful determination to see responsibilities and chosen tasks to their end. Most highly regarded characteristic of his was a gentle demeanor animated by a grand, warm heart, which disposed graciousness was felt by friend, enemy, and lowly alike....more

White is redeemed from my unfavorable opinions of A. Lincoln with American Ulysses, as he succeeds in bringing the general to life again and relighting his legacy. His portrayal of the relationship between Ulysses and Julia is as heartwarming as the couple's love was adorable. He reveals that Grant was loved throughout the country more at his death than Abraham Lincoln, despite being nearly lost in the shadow of his predecessor today. However, Grant's world tour was terribly rushed, but would haWhite is redeemed from my unfavorable opinions of A. Lincoln with American Ulysses, as he succeeds in bringing the general to life again and relighting his legacy. His portrayal of the relationship between Ulysses and Julia is as heartwarming as the couple's love was adorable. He reveals that Grant was loved throughout the country more at his death than Abraham Lincoln, despite being nearly lost in the shadow of his predecessor today. However, Grant's world tour was terribly rushed, but would have meant another 200-300 pages had it been explored further in this volume. Grant has rushed to the upper levels of my list of favorite presidents, and White's biography has played a significant role. I now add Grant's Personal Memoirs to my list of books to read....more

"[Secretary of State] Fish penned an impromptu tribute to his commander in chief. Not one for hyperbole, he wrote: "No man living is more tolerant of honest and manly differences of opinions, - is more sincere or single in his desire for the public welfare, -is more disinterested or regardless of what concerns himself, - is more frank and confiding in his own dealings …”"

On leadership:

“Grant wanted Phil Sheridan to press an assault in theCabinet Member speaking to Grant’s Character as President:

"[Secretary of State] Fish penned an impromptu tribute to his commander in chief. Not one for hyperbole, he wrote: "No man living is more tolerant of honest and manly differences of opinions, - is more sincere or single in his desire for the public welfare, -is more disinterested or regardless of what concerns himself, - is more frank and confiding in his own dealings …”"

On leadership:

“Grant wanted Phil Sheridan to press an assault in the Shenandoah Valley, hoping “Little Phil” would succeed where Franz Sigel and David Hunter had failed. He may have remembered that final day at Chattanooga, when, after the ascent up Missionary Ridge left everyone exhausted, a young general had wanted to press on to defeat the enemy. Now he wanted Phil Sheridan to press the assault in the Shenandoah. Grant received Lincoln’s strong approval. Grant wrote Halleck the next day, “I want Sheridan put in command of all the troops in the field with instructions to put himself south of the enemy and follow him to the death. Wherever the enemy goes, let our troops go also.” Grant knew he had some persuading to do, but he had no idea how much political maneuvering was going on in Washington by Halleck and Stanton, who disliked Sheridan…. Thirty-three-year-old Sheridan arrived the following day and, as ordered, reported directly to Grant. By early September, Sheridan would command a reorganized Army of the Shenandoah consisting of more than forty thousand men including eight thousand cavalry. With this, Grant brought Sheridan into the inner circle of generals he trusted implicitly, which heretofore had included only Sherman and McPherson. He told Sheridan he would not attempt to manage or interfere with his efforts: “I feel every confidence” in your abilities and “will leave you as far as possible to act on your own judgment and not embarrass you with orders and instructions.” …. [After decisively defeating Jubal Early in the Shenandoah Valley campaigns of 1864] Meade telegraphed Grant, commending Sheridan, the man he had once criticized, for achieving “one of the most brilliant feats of the war.” … [In appreciation, Lincoln said to an assembled crown,] “I propose that you give three hearty cheers for Sheridan.” Then, “I propose three cheers for General Grant, who knew to what use to put Sheridan.”

On Reconstruction:

[President Andrew Johnson, unpopular but angling for election (after taking office following Lincoln’s assassination), resentful of Commanding General Grant’s popularity and threat to the election, and scheming for a way to get rid of those in D.C. who would enforce Reconstruction policies, tried to send Grant on a diplomatic mission to Mexico. Grant resisted, feeling compelled to maintain federal military presence in Southern states to enforce civil rights and oppose voter suppression.][Sherman:] “There is some plan to get Grant out of the way, and to get me here, but I will be a party to no such move.” [Grant] wrote Johnson asking “to be excused from the duty proposed.” He reasoned, “It is a diplomatic service for which I am not fitted either by education or taste. It has necessarily to be conducted under the State Department with which my duties do not connect me.” Grant said he was a soldier, not a politician. He hoped that would end the matter. It did not. Two days later at a cabinet meeting, Johnson, as if his exchange of letters with Grant had never happened, turned to Secretary of State Seward and asked him to read the instructions for Grant’s diplomatic assignment. Johnson had challenged the wrong man. By now provoked, Grant repeated he was unwilling to accept the assignment. Johnson turned to Attorney General Henry Stanbery… “Mr. Attorney General,” he said, “is there any reason why General Grant should not obey my orders?” Before Stanbery could say a word, Grant stood up: “I can answer that question.” He told the cabinet that as an army officer, “any legal military order you give me I will obey; but this is civil and not military; and I decline the duty.” He ended dramatically, “No power on earth can compel me to it.” Grant walked out of the Cabinet Room.”

“Of all the issues and problems that [Grant] confronted [as President] – domestic and foreign – none aroused Grant’s passion more than the increasing attacks on blacks. With the Forty-first Congress set to retire on March 4, 1873 and the Forty-second Congress not scheduled to convene until December, the president urged something unusual: he asked the new Congress to begin immediately on March 4. Grant wrote Speaker of the House James G. Blaine on March 9, “There is a deplorable state of affairs existing in some portions of the South demanding the immediate attention of Congress.” … Grant pressed for action, watching as one after another group of Klan members was either released by local authorities or acquitted of any wrongdoing in local or state courts… [Grant] went up to the Capital … to ask Congress to strengthen his executive power in order to protect citizens’ civil rights. He told them he was wary of being called a “military despot,” but congressional leaders told im an anti-Klan bill could pass only with his leadership. That same day, Grant wrote Congress: “the power to correct these evils is beyond the control of the State authorities.” He spoke of the dilemmahe faced: “That the power of the Executive of the United States, acting within the limits of existing laws, is sufficient for present emergencies, is not clear.” Grant “urgently” recommended Congress to pass “such legislation.” Wishing to underscore the centrality of the issue, he assured members of Congress, “There is no other subject on which I would recommend legislation during the present session.” The Forty-second Congress passed a revised Ku Klux Klan Act on April 20. In order to put more teeth into the two previous enforcement acts, this more extensive statute made it a federal offense to “hinder, delay, prevent, or obstruct” anyone “from voting at any election.” The act also made it a federal crime to prohibit persons from holding elective offices or serving on juries… [the Act also] empowered the president to use military force and suspend the writ of habeas corpus…. Fully aware of the firestorm [this Act created], Grant issued an emphatic proclamation on May 3, pledging, “I will not hesitate to exhaust the powers thus vested in the Executive … for the purpose of securing to all citizens of the United States the peaceful enjoyment of the rights guaranteed to them by the Constitution and laws.” Grant’s proclamation, a response to the white-against-black violence, was issued by a president ready to use the powers “vested” in his presidential office. The fact that members of his own Republican Party challenged his right to use those powers did not dissuade him. In exercising these powers, he believed the federal government needed to assume a more central role in protecting the constitutional rights of all of its citizens.”

“Several weeks after his reelection, Grant welcomed a delegation of African American leaders from Philadelphia to the White House. They came to thank him, declaring he was “the first President of the United States elected by the whole people.” They wanted him to know that for them he represented “the practical embodiment of our republican theories.” Grant responded, “In your desire to obtain all the rights of citizens I fully sympathize.” He spelled out what he meant: “A ticket on a railroad or other conveyance should entitle you to all that it does other men.” In that spirit he told them, “I wish that every voter of the United States should stand in all respects alike. It must come.”...more

So many rumors were passed around about Ulysses S. Grant, even in his lifetime, it's difficult to separate myth from reality. Today we will have an image of Grant as rather shallow, a heavy drinker, a general who carelessly sacrificed soldiers, and an easily-manipulated politician. This new biography from Ronald C. White gives a more balanced and more positive perspective on a man who, when he died, was considered the equal of Lincoln and Washington.

Grant is shown as someone who was generally inSo many rumors were passed around about Ulysses S. Grant, even in his lifetime, it's difficult to separate myth from reality. Today we will have an image of Grant as rather shallow, a heavy drinker, a general who carelessly sacrificed soldiers, and an easily-manipulated politician. This new biography from Ronald C. White gives a more balanced and more positive perspective on a man who, when he died, was considered the equal of Lincoln and Washington.

Grant is shown as someone who was generally introverted and thoughtful, a lover of novels (especially Edward Bulwer-Lytton) and stage dramas. He was sent to West Point against his will after a request by his father to a congressman who nominated. him. Born Hiram Ulysses Grant, his army paperwork somehow showed him as Ulysses S. He accepted the name was was known by that name for the rest of his life. Grant wasn't an exceptional student, ranking 21st of 39 cadets, and was best remembered for his horsemanship and hiding in the library to read. He graduated and, figuring that the government deserved some kind of repayment for his education, he accepted a commission as a second lieutenant.

He was stationed in St. Louis, Missouri, where he met Julia Dent, whom he would eventually marry. They courted by mail as Grant followed the army to Texas and Mexico to fight in the Mexican-American War. It was there he had his first exposure to death on the battlefield, used his nearly picture-perfect memory for terrain, and learned from both good and bad commanders some invaluable lessons in leadership.

After marrying Julia he continued his Army career in far-flung places like Vancouver, Washington, and the newly named San Francisco. He augmented his soldier's pay with various side-schemes, most barely recouping his investments. No great fan of Army life and missing his family he resigned his commission and returned to Ohio where he took up an unsuccessful career at farming and eventually made a living by delivering wood. It was on one of these wood delivery trips that he met old Army friends who encouraged him to join up for what would surely be a short spell of soldiering in which the southern rebels would be subdued.

Grant saw quickly that the war would last longer than anyone had suspected. He spent most of first years of the Civil War either in logistics or leading troops in terrain with which he was familiar, especially along the Mississippi River and in Tennessee. As a general he developed strategies and tactics that are still used as models in military manuals. It was also in these campaigns that Grant developed a reputation as a drinker (he rarely drank) and as a blood-thirsty leader (his losses were less than or comparable to Confederate losses). Jealous officers and one particularly distorted New York Times report were the source of both myths about him.

Lincoln's admiration for Grant's willingness to finish the battles he started eventually led to his being named a Lt. General, the first to hold the position since George Washington. His direction of the remaining battles of the war finally helped overcome Lee's forces and the final surrender at Appomattox.

His acceptance of Lee's surrender set a tone for his later presidency, overriding the demands of some radical congressmen and allowing Confederate officers and troops to return home with their own weapons and horses. No arrests. No hangings. Despite his reputation for having his initials stand for "unconditional surrender" Grant felt the best course was to let both sides move on and heal.

As president Grant was very aggressive in Reconstruction, pushing to encourage blacks to vote, hold office, and obtain education. He sent troops against the newly forming KKK and pressed for Constitutional amendments to ensure equal treatment. His work was almost entirely discarded by the presidents who followed.

His own memoir, written while stricken with throat cancer and completed just before his death, is considered the greatest presidential or military autobiography in English. It helped ensure his fame after his death and, with the help of financial negotiations and assistance from friend Mark Twain, also helped Julia live as a rich widow into the next century.

Julia Grant was able to preserve almost every letter she received from her husband, and he wrote her several times a week when they were separated. These letters weren't published until within the last 50 years, and White makes excellent use of them to flesh out Grant's thinking and emotions during key moments of his life. White also includes dozens of perspective from those who worked directly under Grant in military and political situations to make Grant come across as completely human.

This is a new and somewhat rehabilitated Grant, a better military leader than some negative portrayals, more intellectual than many political biographies, and a man who was able to listen without ego to conflicting advice and arrive at unique and individual decisions. He is a more admirable Grant than the drunken and thoughtless leader of modern myth. ...more

Writing this elegant is a skill. If, as history, "American Ulysses" isn't as hard and sharp as I might want it, it's still quite an accomplishment.

It doesn't get a whole lot better than this. By which I really do mean, it can be done better and has been — Jean Edward Smith's "Grant," for instance — but not all that often.

This is presented as an agenda biography, a latest entry in a decades-long softening/rehabilitation of U.S. Grant's reputation: i.e., he's a better man than you thought. RonaldWriting this elegant is a skill. If, as history, "American Ulysses" isn't as hard and sharp as I might want it, it's still quite an accomplishment.

It doesn't get a whole lot better than this. By which I really do mean, it can be done better and has been — Jean Edward Smith's "Grant," for instance — but not all that often.

This is presented as an agenda biography, a latest entry in a decades-long softening/rehabilitation of U.S. Grant's reputation: i.e., he's a better man than you thought. Ronald C. White's enormous (659 pages of main text) book is targeting the mainstream despite its girth; not numbering the end notes in the text is a giveaway, as is the colorized cover photo — because, heavens! we couldn't handle a black and white one. But for all that, it's well done.

The book features maps, photos and illustrations sprinkled throughout as they become relevant, not packaged together. This works well and they're nicely chosen, though there is a rocky start because of an error in which a map of Grant's early moves around the country doesn't jibe with the text.

"American Ulysses" is best when White gets to the heart of the man, even as it's overall a highly sympathetic portrayal. It actually works best in chronicling Grant's post-Civil War life. Grant, a steady, no-nonsense fellow, as a two-term president played key roles in containing the gold panic of 1873 and helping the nation keep a level head while sorting out the Hayes-Tilden presidential election that was a virtual draw. He also was a voice of compassion for African-Americans (covered in some depth here) and Natives (not so much).

The war years? White's capable but not much better than that. Civil War nuts will find his coverage of the conflict skimpy on details; novices will think it lacks clarity. It's Civil War by the numbers and not up to the rest of the book. White is better when he stays out of the line of fire (that goes for the Mexican War, too). Still, the battle maps are very good and unusually plentiful for a straight biography.

White mentions that he's the first Grant biographer to have access to the entirety of the Grant papers. I suspect he's taken advantage of that by providing a revealing glimpse of Grant and those in his orbit, including his wife, Julia, who probably gets more space than in any other Grant biography (I'm guessing), and that's a pretty good thing. White also devotes a lot of space to Grant's just-under-the-deadline (literally) writing of his much-lauded memoirs, including Mark Twain's significant role. That's exceptionally well done, as is a surprisingly detailed relating of Grant's two-and-a-half-year trip around the world, and the post-death wrap-up.

White delivers a very nuanced look at Grant's life, though it quickly moves on after softening Grant's flaws and missteps; it's not very critical, even when it probably should be.

"American Ulysses" is one of a host of Grant biographies that have appeared recently (and perhaps hundreds all told). I'm convinced White tried to write this as a complement of sorts to Smith's biography, published in 2001. Where Smith scrimps, White expounds, and vice versa. Overall, I like Smith's better. It's more scholarly (but not dry), sharper, has more analysis and is better in chronicling the times that made Grant famous in the first place, the Civil War years.

But if you're more interested in the man than the general and don't want to cast too critical an eye on the subject, you'll probably love this....more

Ronald C. White is the author of American Ulysses: A Life of Ulysses S. Grant (2016). General David H. Petraeus (Ret.) wrote, “Certain to be recognized as the classic work on Ulysses S. Grant.”

White is also the author of three books on Abraham Lincoln. A. Lincoln: A Biography [2009], was a New York Times, Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times bestseller. USA Today said, “If you read one book abouRonald C. White is the author of American Ulysses: A Life of Ulysses S. Grant (2016). General David H. Petraeus (Ret.) wrote, “Certain to be recognized as the classic work on Ulysses S. Grant.”

White is also the author of three books on Abraham Lincoln. A. Lincoln: A Biography [2009], was a New York Times, Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times bestseller. USA Today said, “If you read one book about Lincoln, make it A. LINCOLN.” The book was honored as one of the best books of 2009 by the Washington Post, Christian Science Monitor, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, History Book Club, and Barnes & Noble. It won a 2010 Christopher Award which salutes books “that affirm the highest values of the human spirit.”

Lincoln’s Greatest Speech: The Second Inaugural, was honored as a New York Times Notable Book of 2002, and a Washington Post and San Francisco Chronicle bestseller. The Eloquent President: A Portrait of Lincoln Through His Words [2005], was a Los Angeles Times bestseller, and a selection of the History Book Club. White’s op-eds have appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Christian Science Monitor. He has lectured at the White House and been interviewed on the PBS News Hour.

He attended Northwestern University and is a graduate of UCLA and Princeton Theological Seminary, earning a Ph.D. in Religion and History from Princeton University. He has taught at UCLA, Princeton Theological Seminary, Whitworth University, Colorado College, Rider University, and San Francisco Theological Seminary. He is a Fellow at the Huntington Library in San Marino, California, and a Senior Fellow of the Trinity Forum in Washington, D.C. He lives with his wife, Cynthia, in La Cañada, California....more

“One day during the siege, Grant was observed walking the outer line when he encountered a mule-team driver beating and cursing one of the mules. He ordered the man to stop. The animal’s abuser, seeing a man with a blouse and no sign of rank, turned and began to swear at him. Grant had the man arrested and brought to his headquarters. Only then did the mule driver realize whom he had insulted. The man was ordered to be tied up by his thumbs. When released, the contrite soldier apologized for his language, telling Grant he did not know to whom he was speaking. Grant explained that he had punished the soldier not because of what he’d said to his commanding general: “I could defend myself, but the mule could not.”
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“I will not hesitate to exhaust the powers thus vested in the Executive…for the purpose of securing to all citizens of the United States the peaceful enjoyment of the rights guaranteed to them by the Constitution and laws. —ULYSSES S. GRANT, Proclamation, May 3, 1871”
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